Jason David Jenkins Earns GIA's Graduate Gemologist Diploma

By the Midland Daily News

Published 2:00 am, Sunday, February 20, 2011

July 2010 - Jason David Jenkins has completed a comprehensive, five-course on-campus program in diamond grading and gemstone identification and evaluation from the Gemological Institute of America (GlA), an independent nonprofit organization recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Jenkins was awarded the Institute's prestigious Graduate Gemologist diploma from GINs World Headquarters at The Robert Mouawad Campus located in Carlsbad, California. This diploma has long been regarded as the jewelry industry's highest academic credential. Graduates pursue careers as diamond buyers, appraisers, retailers or senior professionals. Jenkins is currently employed and is involved in all divisions of his family's jewelry businesses: Jenkins Custom Jewelers, Diamond Factory, and Spectral Services. His current role includes diamond/gemstone appraisals, retail sales, diamond/gemstone buyer/seller and he is also a bench jeweler 2008 graduate from Stewart's International School for Jewelers located in Jupiter, Florida. Prior to obtaining his OlA designation, Jenkins was an apprentice jeweler for over two years. He plans to continue pursuing his bachelor's degree in retail management locally.

"The Graduate Gemologist designation is instantly recognized by gem and jewelry professionals as a hallmark of accomplishment, credibility, and distinction without parallel in the industry," said GIA Dean of Students, Susan B. Johnson. GlA, established in 1931, has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System TM which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism.